Mary Berry Fork Biscuits are a delightful treat, featuring a light and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for afternoon tea, casual gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence, these biscuits are a timeless favorite.
This recipe yields approximately 20 biscuits and can be prepared in about 30 minutes.
What are Mary Berry Fork Biscuits?
Mary Berry Fork Biscuits are traditional British biscuits known for their simplicity and delightful taste. They are made with basic ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, and are easily recognizable by their fork-patterned tops.
Other Biscuit Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
- Quick Preparation: You can whip these up in just 30 minutes, making them a great last-minute treat.
- Delicious Flavor: The buttery, sweet flavor of these biscuits is irresistible.
- Versatile: Enjoy them plain, or pair them with your favorite jams and spreads.
- Perfect for Gifting: These biscuits make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Fork Biscuits
- Butter: 125g (4.4 oz) of unsalted butter, softened
- Caster Sugar: 50g (1.75 oz) for a fine sweetness
- Self-Raising Flour: 175g (6.2 oz) to give the biscuits their structure
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Baking tray
- Fork
- Cooling rack
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Fork Biscuits
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Flour
Gradually add the self-raising flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Shape the Biscuits
Take small pieces of dough and roll them into balls, about the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking tray, spaced apart.
Step 5: Create the Fork Pattern
Gently press each dough ball with a fork to flatten it slightly and create the signature fork pattern on top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are pale golden in color.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the biscuits to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Fork Biscuits?
- Tea: Perfect with a hot cup of tea.
- Coffee: Enjoy your morning coffee.
- Milk: Great for kids with a glass of milk.
- Jam: Spread your favorite jam on top.
- Cream: Add a dollop of clotted cream for a luxurious treat.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Fork Biscuits
- Use Softened Butter: Ensures easy mixing and a smooth dough.
- Do Not Overmix: Prevents the biscuits from becoming tough.
- Chill Dough: If the dough is too soft, chill for 10 minutes before shaping.
- Even Size: Ensure even-sized balls for uniform baking.
- Watch Closely: Avoid over-baking by keeping an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
Variations of Mary Berry Fork Biscuits
- Chocolate Chip: Add chocolate chips to the dough.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate grated lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Vanilla: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Almond: Replace some flour with ground almonds.
- Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
How do I Store Mary Berry Fork Biscuits Leftovers?
- Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Cool Place: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Freeze: Freeze for longer storage, up to three months.
- Separate Layers: Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Fork Biscuits Leftovers?
- Oven: Warm in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in the microwave on low for 20-30 seconds.
- Room Temperature: Leave at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 2mg
FAQs
How do you keep Mary Berry Fork Biscuits from spreading?
To keep Mary Berry Fork Biscuits from spreading, ensure the butter is not too warm. Chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking can help the biscuits maintain their shape.
Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour for Mary Berry Fork Biscuits?
Yes, you can use plain flour instead of self-raising flour. Simply add 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every 175g (6.2 oz) of plain flour to achieve the same effect.
How long do Mary Berry Fork Biscuits last?
Mary Berry Fork Biscuits can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I add flavorings to Mary Berry Fork Biscuits?
Yes, you can add flavorings such as vanilla extract, lemon zest, or spices like cinnamon to the dough. These additions can enhance the flavor and add a unique twist to the biscuits.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Fork Biscuits are a timeless classic that anyone can make and enjoy. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and a delicious result make this recipe a must-try. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these biscuits are sure to impress.